In Kissimmee, Florida, a 56-year-old woman died shortly after midnight on Wednesday after being hit by a bullet, police said, according to WFTV. Law enforcement said the victim, Carmen Ochoa, was likely struck by “celebratory gunfire” and added that the investigation is ongoing.
Celebratory gunfire is common around holidays, including New Years, but is illegal across many states, including Texas. In Texas, the offense is punishable by jail time and fines ranging from $4,000 to $10,000, the Dallas Police Department reminded residents on Facebook.
This heartbreaking incident serves as a devastating reminder that what goes up must come down.… pic.twitter.com/iW6WNOCnIA
“Most bullets from celebratory gunfire land harmlessly or lodge in roofs or other property, but, in areas with high population densities, bullets might hit human beings. Falling bullets are most likely to hit victims’ heads, shoulders, and feet and can easily cause extensive damage and injury,” the magazine stated.
“Right before she got hit, she just moved her little brother from the place where the bullet came through the wall. And then two seconds later, she got shot,” Nelson told the outlet.
“We speak time and time again every New Year’s about the fact that what goes up must come down and this is a prime example of the dangers of shooting a firearm indiscriminately into the air,” MDPD Detective Andre Martin said in a statement to NBC Miami. “We have a 10-year-old girl who lost her life at the beginning of the year, we have two parents, a mother and a father, who are now planning a funeral for their daughter to start their year off.”
She was rushed to the hospital after being shot in the back by what appeared to be celebratory gunfire, sources told the outlet. Nelson said she underwent surgery and is now recovering.
It is with deep sorrow that we share the tragic loss of a 10-year-old girl, who was killed due to celebratory gunfire on New Years Day near NW 27 Avenue and NW 21 Street in Miami.
